The Time Rule widget allows you to configure business hours for your phone number. Each set of business hours is represented as a branch, and each branch can have its own distinct call flow.
This widget helps ensure that incoming calls are routed correctly based on your operating hours, improving both customer experience and internal call handling efficiency.
Adding or removing business hours branches
You can add or delete business hours branches directly from the call flow canvas or in the widget's settings. Hover over the dots between existing branches and click the “+” icon that appears to add a new one.
Common settings
The following settings apply to all branches of the Time Rule widget.
Time rule title (optional)
Set a name for the Time Rule widget to easily identify its purpose within your flow.
This is an optional setting, and your flow can still be published without a widget name.
TIP:
Adding a descriptive title helps you recognize each widget’s function without having to open it.
Time zone
Specify the time zone for your business hours. This ensures calls are routed accurately and reports display correct time data.
Setting the correct time zone is essential for two key reasons:
| Purpose | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Accurate routing | Ensures that calls are handled according to local business hours. | A Spanish number (+34) set to UTC instead of CET may cause calls to route outside of real business hours (9:00 AM to 6:00 PM CET), leading to missed calls and frustrated customers. |
| Proper reporting | Ensures that Smartflows reports show call times accurately. | Incorrect time zone settings can distort historical call data and make it difficult to analyze performance or patterns. |
Branch-level settings
Each branch in the Time Rule widget can have its own configuration.
Branch title and time slot
Set a name for the branch and define the days and hours that will direct calls through it. Although the default time slots use 30-second intervals, you can manually type exact times into the fields (for example, enter 13:45 for 1:45 PM).
You can also add multiple time slots within the same branch. For example:
Monday to Friday: 9:00–18:00
Saturday to Sunday: 10:00–14:00
If you prefer separate branches for different schedules, simply create a new branch and configure it independently.
NOTE:
Calls received outside the configured time slots will automatically be routed through the **At any other time** branch.Migrated numbers and legacy labels
IMPORTANT:
If your number was migrated from the legacy call flow to Smartflows, you might still see labels such as *Open*, *Always Open*, *Closed*, or *Always Closed*.
These are remnants of the previous system and will be removed in a future update. They do not affect the hours set in the Time Rule widget.